Ukraine has recognized the Republic of South Sudan as an independent state.
Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych signed a respective decree on Wednesday, the press service of the head of state reported.
The independence of South Sudan was proclaimed on July 9, 2011. Salva Kiir Mayardit was sworn in as the first president of South Sudan.
The country has already been recognized by the United States, China, France, Britain and Libya. The European Union also congratulated the new state in a special statement. On July 9, 2011, the independence of the new state was recognized by Russia.
In January 2011, 99% of the population of South Sudan voted at a referendum for secession from the northern part of the country.
